Last weekend at Monza, two Kimis stood under the Italian sun in the F1 paddock their paths converging in a way that motorsport often orchestrates.
The younger Kimi, Antonelli, had crashed in FP1, a baptism by fire for a driver with a meteoric rise that culminated in a much-anticipated announcement: the 18-year-old charger would be Lewis Hamilton's successor at Mercedes in 2025.
Meanwhile, amidst the frenzy surrounding the Brackley squad’s recruit, Kimi Raikkonen, motorsport’s iconic 'Iceman', made a rare appearance in the F1 paddock on Saturday.
The 2007 world champion, 26 years Antonelli's senior, couldn't hide his amusement when informed of the announcement.
"Yeah, I heard," Raikkonen told F1.com, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "When we came here, somebody said that they announced it!"
The Finn’s veteran eyes immediately saw the bigger picture.
"It's great," he continued. "A lot of new faces, I think, coming next year, a lot of new drivers that have been signed to F1. It's good for the sport, and it's also great to have an Italian in the championship. It's good for everybody, I think."
The 21-time Grand Prix winner, a man known for his blunt honesty, acknowledged the advantage Antonelli possesses compared to his own rookie days.
"I'm sure they know how to get him ready," he said. "Obviously, these days they have simulators. When I started, there was no simulator, you jumped in and got going!"
Iceman 2.0
Kimi Raikkonen brought his son into our Monza garage for a seat fit in the W15.
See you in a few years, Robin pic.twitter.com/8LZnhi2xYE
— Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team (@MercedesAMGF1) September 6, 2024
While the path to F1 has become smoother with advanced technology and testing opportunities, Raikkonen offered his characteristically pragmatic well wishes.
"I think it's much easier [to move up to F1] in many ways, now," he admitted. "You can do a lot of testing, obviously, and get ready. I wish them and all the rest all the best!"
Raikkinen was accompanied in Monza by his with Minttu, and two of their children, Robin and Rianna, in tow, showcasing a lively family life that keeps the 44-year-old plenty busy, especially with his son’s karting career gaining momentum.
“It’s been busy,” the 44-year-old former Ferrari driver confirmed. “We moved to Italy, I’ve been a mechanic for Robin, Rianna is doing gymnastics, and we have a small one [Grace], so a busy family life! But it’s been great.”
As he skillfully burns rubber on Italy’s karting tracks every weekend, does Robin have his sights set on following in his famous father's footsteps to F1 glory?
“Ah, he’s enjoying,” said Dad. “Everything is going nicely. We’ll see. If something comes or not, who knows? But he’s having fun – that’s the main thing.”
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